‘No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark...’ – Warsan Shire
According to the 1951 UN refugee Convention a refugee is a person who ‘has a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.’
Religious intolerance is among the root causes of forcible displacement in a number of the countries on which we work. Many people are forced to flee their homes because their religion or belief makes them a target for severe discrimination, including violence, torture and even death.
‘He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.’ (Deuteronomy 10:18)
Father, teach us how to love like you. Fill our hearts with compassion for those who are in need, including refugees and asylum seekers in our communities and those whose stories we hear. When we struggle to find the words to pray for ongoing situations around the world, hear our cries, oh Lord. Thank you that you are a very present help in times of trouble. Amen.
‘From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.’ (Psalm 61:2-4)
God our rock and salvation. Please help those who are still in danger, even after fleeing to another country. We think of North Korean refugees in China, who are being arrested and forcibly repatriated; Iranian Christians experiencing discrimination or forcible return in Türkiye; Eritreans fearing abduction for ransom in Ethiopia, Cubans and Nicaraguans attempting perilous journeys to freedom, and Rohingyas facing intense hostility in Indonesia. Provide a secure place for them to rebuild their lives and heal from the trauma they have experienced. Amen.
‘For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ (Matthew 25:35-36)
Thank you, Lord, for everyone who works tirelessly to bring practical help and humanitarian assistance to those who need it most – despite the dangers and barriers they face. We pray for your provision and protection for all who are serving the most vulnerable around the world today. Amen.